American Rapture by CJ Leede

American Rapture, on the surface, is a horror novel about a lustful virus that spreads across the US. (If you're someone who can't handle sexual assault or rape depictions, I suggest skipping this one.) But this book is also about grappling with desires in a world where lust is deadly, finding yourself and your truth after being raised Catholic and sheltered, and coming to grips with the beauty and wretchedness of being human, all amid a national pandemic.

While apocalyptic stories aren't my usual go-to read (or watch), I found this book compelling and traumatizing... but in the most beautiful, heart-wrenching way. Leede's descriptions are visceral, poignant, and altogether immersive—exactly what you want from a horror narrative.

I recommend American Rapture to anyone looking for a coming-of-age horror with smatterings of religious trauma, unique pandemics, and a diverse cast of characters.

Thank you to Tor Nightfire and NetGalley for the ARC.